One of the reasons this blog fell by the wayside is that a few years ago I discovered the magic of using Instagram to find inspiration, and to document, my crafting projects. It opened up a whole world of craft for me, including the concept of pattern testing.
I was always vaguely aware that patterns got tested, at least the good ones did. But I never realised it was something that I could take part in. I’d always thought it was something only really experienced crafters. Who was I to provide that sort of service? Crafting is just a hobby for me after all.
Putting aside the fact that “just a hobby” is a problematic phrase in itself; I also realised I’d completed many projects over the years that in the past would have been “too hard”. Not to mention, all patterns, even the easy ones, should be tested. And why not be tested by crafters of all skill levels?
Once the idea of testing a pattern started to feel comfortable, even exciting, it just so happened that on scrolling through my Insta feed I came upon a testing call from a designer I have been following since starting Alikelylass . I first followed Beatriz Rubio at SambaKnits after seeing one of her beautiful shawls. Interestingly, I am not a shawl person. I’ve only knit one before, and I rarely wear it. But something about hers caught my eye and even though I wasn’t about to go knit it, I wanted to see more of her beautiful work.
Back to the testing call, it was for a new pattern called the Jupiter Shawl. I’m sure you’ll agree it’s absolutely beautiful, and I wanted it, despite not being a shawl person!
Before I could think too hard, I leapt on the opportunity. I’m so grateful I was able to take part. Within a week I’d picked my yarn, Hedgehog Fibre’s Twist Stock which I bought from Skein Sisters. Colours were Dune and Crystal. It was my first time using this yarn. Usually I would balk at the price, but I felt this project was worth it. And I don’t regret a thing! The yarn was so wonderful to work with.
From the initial cast on…
To the lace…
To the finished product!
This pattern was so easy that even I was able to follow! I used the chart to knit the lace section and after a few rows got the the gist of how it worked so only needed to refer to it every now and then. It was a great knit for completing while watching TV. There’s enough going on to keep it interesting, but not so much that you’re constantly having to concentrate else make a mistake.
The combination of the yarn and my gauge meant it turned out smaller than I’d hoped, so I did an extra two sections. This meant I ran out of Crystal and if you look closely at the pic you might notice the last twenty or so rounds are only in Dune. They’re similar enough that I don’t mind.
After all each creation has its own story, and nothing hand made is perfect. Otherwise what would be the point?
Cannot recommend this pattern enough. Here’s is the link to my project on Ravelry if you’re interested. Alikelylass’s Jupiter Shawl
Thank you for reading.
x
alikelylass 